Do you have advice for rippling on one side of abdomen after drainless tummy tuck 6 months ago? (Photos)

Question

I have rippling on one side of my abdomen after drainless tummy tuck. I'm 6 months post op. I have rippling on one side of my abdomen after a drainless tt. No lipo. I'm 6 months post op. I noticed this a few weeks post op and thought it would resolve on its own. It hasn't. Considering a scar revision due to minor wound healing issues just above the pubic area. Would a scar revision and taking a little bit more skin help or would I need a complete revision? Any advice is appreciated! My surgeon isn't responsive.

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

It is surprising that lipo was not performed, as this rippling is a possible artifact of liposuction. The rippling may be improved by use of a liposuction basket cannula, which can release some of the underlying scar tissue and re-distribute the fat. The goal in this case is to not remove fat, but to re-distribute it to smooth the skin. Best wishes in your recovery!

Robert M. Lowen, MD · Answer

The pictures appear to show a vertical linear line of bunched tissue on the right side, presumably due to not distributing the flap in such a way as to prevent this when the flap was re-attached.
 An in-person exam would really be needed to see if the tissue is adherent at the area of vertical bunching.  Assuming it is, to avoid re-elevating the flap,  one could consider  discontinuous  undermining with a liposuction cannula  without suction  to see if this would release any adhesion along that line and let the flap lie smoother.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It is impossible to gat a good information about tone and laxity of your skin from these photos. Whether liposuction, TT revision or both, are needed to improve current result can be decided only on the basis of in person consultation. You should seek a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon with good reputation in body contouring surgery. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear belle744,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

My first question is whether Liposuction was performed at the time of the abdominoplasty?  If so, it might be cannula lines.
A physical exam would answer this question more readily.
Dr. Taranow

Do you have advice for rippling on one side of abdomen after drainless tummy tuck 6 months ago? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Rippling

Answer: Rippling

Answer: Residual lines

Answer: Residual lines

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck Revision

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Do you have advice for rippling on one side of abdomen after drainless tummy tuck 6 months ago? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Rippling

Answer: Rippling

Answer: Residual lines

Answer: Residual lines

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck Revision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.